Voters in Tennessee's 5th Congressional District headed to the polls on Thursday, August 6, 2026, in a Republican primary that serves as a significant test of former President Donald Trump's political influence.

Incumbent Rep. Andy Ogles, a vocal Trump ally, is seeking a third term representing the Middle Tennessee district, which includes parts of the Nashville suburbs. Ogles has secured endorsements from prominent conservatives including House Speaker Mike Johnson and House Judiciary Committee Chair Jim Jordan. Johnson emphasized Ogles' importance, stating, "We're working with a one or two vote margin, and at the end of the day when things are tight, Andy Ogles is one of the members who's a small handful of guys who helps deliver the vote."

Ogles praised Trump's role in selecting conservative candidates, saying, "Trump has really done a good job of making sure that he's choosing conservatives in races, which is also why I have the endorsement of [House Speaker] Mike Johnson, you know, conservative stalwart. [House Judiciary Committee Chair] Jim Jordan has endorsed me."

His opponent, Republican Charlie Hatcher, is the state's former Agriculture commissioner under Gov. Bill Lee and previously served as Tennessee State Veterinarian under both Democratic and Republican administrations. Hatcher received an 11th-hour endorsement from Gov. Lee, who in a video released Tuesday night noted that he and Hatcher have been friends for 25 years and praised Hatcher as a conservative with strong right-wing values. Ogles responded to Lee's endorsement by saying, "You know, they're friends."

The race has attracted significant financial attention, with a $1.3 million effort underway to unseat Ogles. The contest is viewed as critical for maintaining and growing the Republican majority in the House, with Ogles described as a key part of that majority.

The primary outcome is seen as a bellwether for Trump's continuing sway in Republican primaries ahead of the upcoming midterm elections.

Sources